When Cesare Vecellio’s guide to the dress and customs of the world appeared in Venice in 1590, it was a publishing sensation. It has taken four hundred years for this remarkable work to be translated into English. Each page features a detailed illustration along with Vecellio's extensive, often highly opinionated, commentary. This edition features all the original text and woodcuts (540 of them), plus an in-depth illustrated introduction by the translators, two of the foremost authorities on Italian literature and dress of the time. Also includes an illustrated glossary of terms.

Packed with fascinating images, as well as enchanting (and often amusing) descriptions of the costume and habits of the peoples of the world as seen in the late 16th century, this book will appeal to all those interested in the history of dress, travel, antiquarian books, Renaissance art and cultural history.

After a brief history of dress in Ancient Rome, the book concentrates on the clothing of Italy before extending its scope to Europe and beyond. It describes in captivating detail the dress and customs of the inhabitants, from the loftiest rulers down to gravediggers, beggars, and orphans, and stretches to the farthest reaches of Japan, China, Africa, and India.